2026 Maine Tourism Award Categories

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​​​​​​​​RISING STAR AWARD​

This person or business is new to Maine’s tourism industry and has earned recognition for their own professional growth or for advancing the success of their business/organization and raising the bar for tourism in Maine. Accomplishments can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Product development or marketing

• Use of new technology

• Adapting business practices to leverage travel and tourism trends

• Creation of innovative collaborations or partnerships

 

 

LEADERSHIP & GROWTH AWARD

This company/organization/person not only strives to grow its own business, but also works with others within the industry to grow tourism in Maine in a sustainable way. Accomplishments can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Local, regional and statewide tourism initiatives

• Builds partnerships and collaborations

• Job creation

• Reinvests in tourism through upgrades and expansions

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STEWARDSHIP AWARD

This company/organization/community is promoting tourism in a way that supports the triple bottom line of economy, environment and community, and the sustainable growth of tourism in their destination. Initiatives can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Showcasing Maine’s local makers, artists and food producers

• Marketing and PR that responsibly promotes the cultural identity of Maine communities

• Encouraging responsible behaviors that protect Maine’s cultural & natural environment

• Programs that connect Maine’s cultural and natural assets​

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WELCOMEME AWARD

This person has set a standard for exemplary customer service as a member of Maine’s tourism front-line workforce. Examples can include but are not limited to:

• Empowering visitors to explore more of Maine

• Acting as an ambassador for their destination

• Improving the visitor experience

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MAINE TOURISM ASSOCIATION - HALL OF FAME AWARD

Maine Tourism Association’s Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding individuals or groups of people who through their leadership, dedication, and professionalism, have made significant and sustained contributions to the tourism industry in Maine. Every year one member from the Association is chosen to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, this year at the Maine Tourism Conference awards reception.  

*Nominations must be a member of the Maine Tourism Association

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MAINE OFFICE OF TOURISM - GOVERNOR’S AWARD FOR TOURISM EXCELLENCE

Tourism excellence is a combination of all that epitomizes a true hospitality leader – a business, organization or person with a steadfast commitment to employees, customers and community as well as to the tourism industry in Maine overall. Please provide as much detail as possible in each of those areas.

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